Celebrate America’s national symbol, head into the National Forest on snowshoes or just explore Discovery Center’s wooded grounds in your sneakers during February programs at Big Bear Discovery Center.

    President’s Day weekend sees the annual Bald Eagle Celebration at Discovery Center on Saturday, Feb. 13, as Forest Service biologists present a fascinating slide show on the beautiful birds that winter in Big Bear. There’s informative handouts for adults and kids, plus a visit by a live bald eagle, Aries, courtesy of Moonridge Animal Park. The program is from 1-2:30 p.m. and costs $5, $3 ages 12 and under.

    Discovery Center often has a spotting scope focused on birds across the lake that makes it easy to spot eagles as well. Plus volunteer for the monthly eagle counts (story page 3) and biologists will give you a map on where to find them.

    Popular Snowshoe Tours continue each weekend as naturalists lead guided tours out to play in the fluffy stuff. Explore snow-covered trails in search of signs of winter wildlife while enjoying winter recreation at the same time. It’s amazing how quiet the woods are when they’re blanketed by snow, which acts like a sound absorber...hear each step break through a thin layer amidst peace and tranquility!

    Learn how to snowshoe properly; if you can walk, then you can snowshoe! Naturalists point out flora and fauna along the way and there’s time for exploration too. Snowshoe tours are from 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. each Saturday, Sundays from 9 a.m.-noon. Tours cost $35, $25 ages 8-16, which includes snowshoe rental, poles, snacks and water.

    Free Nature Walks led by naturalists explore Discovery Center’s forested grounds Saturdays at 1 and 2 p.m. and Sundays at 11 a.m. and noon. Each 30-minute, non-strenuous adventure teaches local flora and fauna plus local history.

    Animal Tracking programs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Jan. 30 and Feb. 13 show how to track local animals and participants even make their own tracks. Cost is $3.

    Free Nature-Themed Crafts are on Sundays, Feb. 14 and 28 from 10 a.m.-noon.

    Call Big Bear Discovery Center at (909) 866-3437.